HRT (Oestrogen) Patches
HRT (Oestrogen) Patches
Oestrogen patches are useful because they are applied as a translucent plaster placed below the waist, to the hip, outer thigh, lower tummy or bottom and are only changed twice a week.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Liz Andrew
BMS Accredited Menopause Doctor
Reviewed: 19/02/2025 Published: 21/02/2025
Benefits of HRT Patches
Oestrogen patches are applied as a translucent plaster placed below the waist, such as on the hip, outer thigh, lower abdomen, or buttock, and are changed only twice a week. They offer a convenient and discreet way to receive HRT.
Unlike tablets, oestrogen patches do not increase the risk of blood clots and may help reduce some side effects of HRT, such as indigestion. They can also be helpful for people who experience migraines, as they provide a steady dose of oestrogen, which may reduce migraine frequency.
Patches can be worn while bathing, showering, or swimming and deliver a continuous, consistent dose of hormone. They are available in different strengths, although adjusting the dose can be less flexible than with some other forms of HRT.
Some women may find that patches cause skin irritation, reactions to the adhesive, or problems with sticking, while others find them very easy to use and often forget about them between changes.
Oestrogen patches release a steady dose of oestrogen through the skin and into the bloodstream. This helps replenish oestrogen levels, reducing menopause symptoms such as hot flushes, mood changes, and joint pain. They are usually changed twice a week to maintain consistent hormone levels.
Key information about HRT (Oestrogen) patches
Many women notice improvements in symptoms like hot flushes, brain fog, and sleep within a few weeks, but it can take up to three months to feel the full effects. If symptoms persist, the dose may need adjusting.
There is no strong evidence that oestrogen patches cause weight gain. Some women notice changes in body shape or mild bloating when starting HRT, but this is usually due to fluid retention and settles over time. Oestrogen may actually help prevent the increase in abdominal fat linked to menopause.
Oestrogen patches should be applied to a clean, dry, hair-free area below the waist—usually on the lower abdomen or buttocks. They should not be placed on or near the breasts. Rotating the application site can help prevent skin irritation.
Both are effective, and the choice depends on personal preference:
- Patches: Provide a steady hormone release, require less daily effort, and may be more convenient for some women.
- Gel: Allows for more dose flexibility and avoids potential skin irritation from patches, but needs to dry before dressing.
Both bypass the liver, making them a good option for women who cannot take oral HRT.
It depends on the type of HRT:
- Sequential (cyclical) HRT – Used in perimenopause, includes progesterone for part of the month, and leads to a monthly withdrawal bleed.
- Continuous combined HRT – Used after menopause (12 months without a period) and should not cause regular bleeding, though some spotting can occur in the first few months.
To keep patches in place:
- Apply to clean, dry skin (avoid lotions or oils).
- Choose a low-friction area like the lower abdomen or buttocks.
- Press firmly for at least 10 seconds when applying.
- If sweating or swimming frequently, a clear dressing over the patch can help keep it secure.
The lower body has better absorption for the hormone and avoids breast tissue, reducing any unnecessary exposure to oestrogen. This placement also helps keep hormone levels stable.
Most women tolerate patches well, but some may experience:
- Skin irritation at the patch site
- Breast tenderness
- Mild bloating or fluid retention
- Headaches (usually temporary)
- Breakthrough bleeding in the first few months (if on combined HRT)
Side effects often settle with time, but if they persist, adjusting the dose or type of HRT may help.
Learn more about your treatment options
Book a complementary discovery call with our patient care team, who can help you by:
- Explaining the clinical pathway and how oestrogen patches can be prescribed through our partner pharmacies
- Offering guidance as to whether you may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Share personal insight and other patient experiences of oestrogen treatment (non-clinical advice)
- Offering compassionate support and a safe, confidential space to openly discuss your concerns
What are the differences between the different HRT patch brands?
There are oestrogen-only patches as well as some combined patches containing both oestrogen and progesterone. Which type you are prescribed depends on your circumstances and medical history.
Estradot is a brand of oestrogen-only patch and comes in five different strengths, giving flexibility of dosing. Each prescribed carton contains 8 Estradot patches, enough for a 4-week cycle. This can be used on its own (in those without a womb) or alongside progesterone to give flexibility of dosing.
It is soft, small and often sticks well. You apply it to the hairless skin on your hip, thigh or bottom and change your patch twice weekly. You should not put the patches on top of cuts, spots or anywhere where the skin is irritated and should avoid using cream, moisturiser or talc before application. You also need to rotate where you place each new patch so as not to apply on the same area of skin twice in a row.
The patch delivers a continuous and controlled dose of estradiol that is absorbed by the skin and into the bloodstream. There are other brands including Evorel which are slightly larger.
